Episode 3 Sneak Peek #15

Sneak peeks are back! This is from a part of Aeran's continuity branch. The MC did not get fired from the Lethalis mission and they did not speak to Veyer in the gallery in Episode 2. 

The long, narrow courtyard is surprisingly chilly, its vibrant plants and decorative architecture dull without the sun. A channel carved from white marble cuts through the centre, flowing westward to the imposing red stone of Mahanin’s outer wall. It passes through an arched gate at its base, the threshold glimmering with layers of security spells. Several small, personal boats are moored on either side, bobbing gently in the water. A private yachting exit, intended for members of the House and their important guests.

You raise your head, eyes narrowed as you scan the battlements. Even if this is a private gate, surely the Anaxas guard must be up there…

“And here I was beginning to think you weren’t coming,” a familiar, mocking voice calls.

You freeze, body tensing instinctively at the interruption. Exchanging looks with Aeran, you round on the intruder.

Veyer Krellion emerges from the shadows, a shoulder leaning against an arched column and a hand in their pocket. Their dark hair hangs loosely about their face, brushing the shoulders of their rumpled jacket. They are wearing the same clothing as they wore to the gala. From the dishevelled look and the satisfied smirk, you gather they didn’t make it home last night.

“So many complex parts to Her Grace’s plan,” they continue drily, meeting your eyes. “So many ways it could go wrong. I was concerned, of course. Perhaps you were waylaid by the archon’s guards, or placed under house arrest, or otherwise spirited off to a place where even Malsara couldn’t reach you. It would be an atrocious start to the day to discover the key to our success had been compromised. I do hate rising early for no reason.”

“What are you doing here, Krellion?” Aeran grunts.

Their eyes flick past Aeran and land on you. “Did you forget? I’m a crucial part of this mission.”

“Didn’t realize you were part of the escort.”

“I had no reason to leave the security of Mahanin. Poor Malsara would have had to pluck me out from under the watchful eye of Sabien Quirinus had I returned to Ruval with my colleagues. Besides, I had no intention of wasting my evening. I enjoy the archon’s little gatherings. Erenvor leaves me with little opportunity to indulge.”

Aeran snorts with disgust. “You’re a real piece of work—”

“I am merely playing my part, Kellis,” Veyer interrupts. “The Guild expects me to misbehave in Velantis. Imperial court mages often do. Should any of this run afoul, well…” They push off the column and spread their hands wide. “It can fall on my shoulders and no one will think twice of it. I have the emperor’s favour, after all.”